D E Lover streaking into Casey Darnell Pony Express
RACE REPLAY IS NOT AVAILABLE
D E Lover, who will seek his fourth straight win Saturday in the $60,000 Casey Darnell Pony Express at The Downs at Albuquerque, was part of the most memorable day of racing Tony Sedillo has ever had as a trainer.
The occasion was the final card of the Ruidoso Downs meet Sept. 5. D E Lover stormed to a 6 3/4-length win in the $50,000 Ruidoso Thoroughbred Championship, covering six furlongs in a blazing 1:08.80. But the best was yet to come for Sedillo.
A few races later, the 58-year-old trainer sent out Imperial Eagle to win the $3 million All American Futurity, the richest offering for 2-year-old Quarter Horses.
“That’s kind of like a dream come true, the race everyone shoots at your whole life,” Sedillo said.
Imperial Eagle is headed to the Sept. 24 trials for the Grade 2 Hobbs America Futurity at Zia Park in Hobbs, N.M., Sedillo said.
D E Lover, meanwhile, will have to defeat five others Saturday to keep his win streak alive. The Pony Express, which will be run over 5 1/2 furlongs, is for 3-year-olds and up bred in New Mexico.
Pony Express (Race 9)
KEY CONTENDERS
D E Lover, by So Long Birdie
Last 3 Beyers: 86-84-86
◗ He started his win streak in an optional $20,000 claiming race over 7 1/2 furlongs July 4 at Ruidoso. D E Lover proceeded to win the track’s $50,000 Sierra Blanca at 5 1/2 furlongs July 31, then took the Thoroughbred Championship. His wins during the streak have come by a combined 14 1/2 lengths. He also has shown versatility, winning from both on and off the pace.
◗ D E Lover drew post 6 and could get an ideal tracking trip off Weappear, who breaks from the rail, and Storm of Roses, who drew post 2.
◗ Sedillo, who co-owns D E Lover with Leroy Martinez, has given the mount to Jorge Martin Bourdieu.
◗ D E Lover is a candidate for the New Mexico Cup program Oct. 30 at Zia, Sedillo said.
Citizen Geller, by Pro Prado
Last 3 Beyers: 90-67-87
◗ He is seeking his second stakes win at the meet, following the $60,000 O.D. McDonald on June 25. That race was run over seven furlongs, and he will be picking up ground Saturday off a runner-up finish in a five-furlong optional $20,000 claiming sprint at Albuquerque.
◗ Alfredo Sigala has the mount for UKUSA Stables and trainer Vance Mikkelson.